Migraines

When we talk of migraine we think of a very very bad headache. Yes, it is a neurological disorder characterised by pain that is restricted to one side of the head, could be throbbing or pulsing, lasting for up to 4 hours or even days at a stretch, despite pain… ...Read more

When we talk of migraine we think of a very very bad headache. Yes, it is a neurological disorder characterised by pain that is restricted to one side of the head, could be throbbing or pulsing, lasting for up to 4 hours or even days at a stretch, despite pain relief measures. The headache can be often accompanied by:

nausea,

vomiting,

difficulty speaking,

numbness or tingling,

sensitivity to light and sound and

worsened pain when you move, cough, or sneeze

It is also possible to have these symptoms without any headache. Based on symptoms and clinical history, migraines are categorised into those with aura (classic migraines) and those without aura (common migraines).In a study conducted in Eastern India, the results showed that about 14.12% of the respondents had migraine. The maximum burden was among women aged between 30 and 34 years.Causes of MigraineNo definite cause(s) have been identified for migraines but triggers are many. Changes in brain chemicals, e.g. decrease in the level of serotonin can activate a migraine. Other triggers include:Emotional factors: Stress, anxiety, depression, traumaDiet: Tobacco,caffeine or caffeine withdrawal, skipped meals, alcohol, chocolate, aged cheeses, Monosodium glutamate (MSG), fermented or pickled goods, yeast, cured meats, some fruits and nuts, dehydrationSensory overload: Strong smells, loud noises, bright or flashing lights, sudden changes in weatherPhysical conditions: Medication overuse (taking medicine for migraines too often), too much or not enough sleep, hormonal changes in women, Overexertion (too much physical activity), low blood sugar and jet lag.Managing MigrainesMigraine sufferers wish they could pop a pill and get immediate relief from the debilitation that a migraine can cause. But since that is not a thing, the next best course of action is prevention. The frequency of a migraine attack can be controlled by adopting these measures in one’s lifestyle:

getting enough sleep

reducing stress

drinking plenty of water

avoiding certain foods

regular physical exercise

keeping a migraine log to see what foods, medicines or activities trigger the migraine

A gluten-free diet can be helpful

There is no cure for migraines but doing these things can help to alleviate the discomfort:1) Resting with your eyes closed in a quiet, darkened room2) Placing a cool cloth or ice pack on your forehead3) Drinking fluidsGoing beyond the holistic approachTraditional western methods are widely used for treating Migraines. Louise Hay, motivational leader and empowerment coach who has done pathbreaking work in supporting HIV/AIDS patients and their families, has said that, “Illness however mild or severe is an indicator of your emotional state, caused by your thoughts and focus.” According to her, the main cause of Migraine is: Dislike of being driven. Resisting the flow of life. Sexual fears. One way of healing this is through saying or writing affirmations. Doing this regularly can help to reduce the debilitating effects of this illness.Her affirmation for healing Migraine is: I relax into the flow of life and let life provide all that I need easily and comfortably. I love Life! Other alternative therapies that have also given good results for treating this disorder are: Tibetan Bowl, Reiki, Ana Pana Sati Mediation, Crystal Bowl,Acupressure,Bach Flower Remedies, Rebirthing , Braintap, Hypnotherapy, Homeopathy. Read less

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